Tips for Traveling on a Budget
Whenever I see or hear about interesting places I quickly make a note and add it to my list of interest. When we set a destination we maximize the whole experience. I find what's there to do around the area and pack the day on.
Years of strategic planning with kids and dogs has taught me that traveling and entertaining can be very expensive but it doesn't have to be. Here are some tips that I've learned along the way.
DINING IN
DINING OUT
FREE EVENTS
PAID EVENTS
BE CREATIVE
In 1889, brothers Andre and Edouard Michelin founded their world-famous tire company. They also produced a small red guide filled with handy information for travelers. In the 1920s, it included a new list of establishments including restaurants according to specific categories. Today we all know it as the coveted Michelin Stars.
One star signifies a very good restaurant
Two stars signify excellent cooking that is worth a detour.
Three stars signify exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.
Although dining at a three Michelin Star restaurant is not in my radar anytime soon (come on universe!) I like to use the guide when deciding on our destinations. Make anything you spend money on worth a special journey. This goes for activities, food, and well anything. If you're paying, it better be worth it.
Don't leave food as a second thought, it can quickly eat up your budget with no pun intended. Save the eating out for destination eateries and restaurants. Dining should be the destination and treated as that, otherwise save your dough for your fun budget instead. More on that on that below.
We made a special journey to visit Ford's Lobsters in Noank, CT
If summer could be served on a plate. Ford's was an adorable little hidden gem. There was even an orange cat that walked around outside waiting patiently for scraps.
Tucked away from too much hustle and bustle. Diners can sit along the water and watch fishermen float by to unload their catch.
As big lobster fans what better way to try Connecticut-Style lobster rolls than in Connecticut itself?
SET A BUDGET
Each part of the day should have an allotted amount so you’re not left to sort through expenses after. Set a food budget, a fun budget, and a misc/emergency budget.
One way to reduce your food cost is to pack snacks. High substance and nutritional foods like fruits and nuts are easy to transport. They also provide lasting more sustained energy. On longer trips packing a cooler can keep sandwiches, drinks, and other perishables safe. Nothing is more satisfying than the taste of homemade food after a long day of exploring.
As mentioned above, make anything you spend money on special. Carefully plan out expenses and include purchases such as souvenirs and gifts. Check for special times that offer discounted rates and check online for coupons. Not all fun activities have to involve your hard earned money leaving your pockets. More details on that on the next tip below.
Small expenses add up quickly and it can be frustrating when you see that many were unnecessary. Keep the miscellaneous to a minimum. Set an emergency budget and try to keep it for an actual emergency. You’ll be so proud of yourself.
FREE ACTIVITIES
Our day trips and weekend getaways are sort of a hybrid. After choosing a paid activity we also check out the free things to do in the area. We've found the most interesting and unique spots.
There are beautiful gardens, natural parks, and scenic trails all around.
Cultural and historical sites are always fun, with some even allowing your dogs to come. There are even many museums that offer complimentary or reduced admission for the needy and those going through tougher times. The Museums for All initiative runs a nationwide program.
Websites like Eventbrite or a quick search on the web can find free events happening in the area during your visit. Many businesses advertise online and digital maps will now show what can be easily traveled to on the way or coming from your main destination.
We've dreamt of visiting the tulip fields at the Keukenhof garden.
Luckily we don't have to fly all the way to Holland and were able to visit the blooms at Holland Ridge Farms, NJ in the meantime.
The entrance fee to the farm was well worth every penny from our fun budget. It was an experience we won't soon forget.
On the way back we stopped by to explore Lake Solitude waterfall. The power of nature is so magnificent and never disappoints.
With a little planning and some research ahead, you can pack your day with memorable times and cross off items on your bucket list without breaking the bank.
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